Transform simple ingredients into a luxurious pantry staple with this homemade vanilla extract. By combining plump vanilla beans with high-proof vodka, you create a deep, aromatic infusion that far surpasses store-bought alternatives. The addition of a simple sugar syrup balances the alcohol bite, resulting in a smooth, versatile flavor enhancer perfect for baking, desserts, and beverages. While it requires patience to infuse properly, the result is a complex, sweet, and indulgent essence that elevates any recipe. This batch is ideal for holiday baking, homemade ice cream, or simply drizzling over coffee for a sophisticated treat.
Vanilla Extract 1
Description
Transform simple ingredients into a luxurious pantry staple with this homemade vanilla extract. By combining plump vanilla beans with high-proof vodka, you create a deep, aromatic infusion that far surpasses store-bought alternatives. The addition of a simple sugar syrup balances the alcohol bite, resulting in a smooth, versatile flavor enhancer perfect for baking, desserts, and beverages. While it requires patience to infuse properly, the result is a complex, sweet, and indulgent essence that elevates any recipe. This batch is ideal for holiday baking, homemade ice cream, or simply drizzling over coffee for a sophisticated treat.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut the vanilla beans lengthwise to expose the seeds, then place them into a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
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Pour the vodka over the vanilla beans in the jar, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
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Seal the jar tightly and let it sit at room temperature for three weeks to allow the initial infusion.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sugar syrup to cool to room temperature.
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Strain the vanilla-infused vodka through a double layer of cheesecloth into a clean bowl, removing the vanilla beans.
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Stir the cooled sugar syrup into the strained vanilla vodka mixture.
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Pour the final mixture into a clean, sterilized bottle and seal tightly.
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Store the bottle at room temperature for one month before using to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 590.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.8g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 9.3mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 107.2g36%
- Dietary Fiber 24.8g100%
- Sugars 69.0g
- Protein 9.0g18%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store in a cool, dark place. The extract will keep for several years, and the flavor will continue to deepen over time.
Variations: You can add additional vanilla beans to the bottle after using some extract to recharge the bottle.
Tips: Use high-quality vodka for a cleaner taste. The sugar syrup adds sweetness and body, making this extract slightly different from pure unsweetened extract; adjust sweetness in your baking recipes accordingly if needed.
Safety: Keep away from children and pets due to alcohol content.
